Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders Make Historic Move with Union Formation
The Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders have officially formed a union, marking a historic moment in professional sports cheerleading.
The stage is set for a significant milestone in sports history as the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders officially establish a union, becoming a pioneer among professional cheerleading squads in the United States. This initiative marks a major first since a previous attempt by the Buffalo Bills’ cheerleading team, the Buffalo Jills, in the mid-1990s.
Union Recognition and Future Contracts
The Dallas Cowboys have formally acknowledged the cheerleaders’ new bargaining unit, according to a joint announcement from both the team and the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders Association. This recognition comes on the heels of productive discussions, which sets the groundwork for upcoming contract negotiations.
The current cheerleading squad comprises 36 active members, though the total number represented by the union is still to be defined. In a joint press release, the two parties emphasized the heartfelt respect that the Cowboys organization holds for its cheerleaders, celebrating their skills and dedication.
Media Influence and Enhanced Pay
This pivotal development follows increased visibility generated by the Netflix series “America’s Sweethearts,” which portrays the daily lives of the cheerleaders both on and off the field. The exposure has proven beneficial, leading to a staggering 400% salary increase for the cheerleaders, effective in the 2025 season. Some veteran cheerleaders are now set to earn more than $75 per hour, highlighting the positive changes brought about through this platform.
Prior to this recent progress, concerns over fair pay were raised when a former cheerleader filed a lawsuit claiming she was compensated below the minimum wage. The Cowboys ultimately reached a settlement, reflecting ongoing challenges related to equitable compensation in the cheerleading profession.
A Legacy of Transformation
The Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders hold a rich legacy dating back to 1961, yet they only embarked on their professional journey in the early 1970s. Under the guidance of Cowboys President Tex Schramm and local choreographer Texie Waterman, they adopted their distinctive star-spangled outfits that continue to characterize their brand today.
Historically, the cheerleading squad earned as little as $15 per game during the Cowboys’ glory days in the 1990s, starkly contrasted by the current pay structure. This history illustrates the remarkable evolution and growth of the cheerleading program over the decades.
The establishment of this union is anticipated to pave the way for enhanced working conditions and representation for cheerleaders across professional sports. As the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders embark on this new chapter, they may inspire other cheerleading teams nationwide to advocate for their rights and welfare.
